What makes a good campsite?

Facilities - At least have a working toilet, showers are always a bonus.

Picturesque area- Amazing scenery or views with close by photo opportunities.

Not everyone knows about it

Sheltered from strong winds

Not overly crowded - Based on your personal preference.

Low cost - Not paying through the nose to stay the night is good but FREE is even better!

Close to water - Near rivers, streams, fishing, swimming etc.

Campfires allowed - Bonus if firewood is available onsite.

Shady areas - Big trees to get out of the sun on hot days.

Pets allowed - Particularly dog friendly campgrounds for dog owners.

Caravans or camper trailer access - Important for campers who are towing.

How do you find the best free camp grounds?

"Sometimes I will drive down a side track and be lucky enough to discover a new secret camp ground, but it's always best to have a backup plan such as a hard copy camping guide or offline GPS navigation with camps search." says Micah Brouwer, who is a part of the Hema Map Patrol. "Many people have a different idea about what makes a camping spot great. For me, some of the best campsites I have stayed at are extremely remote and rarely visited, usually with limited facilities. I have the place to myself and I can set up my site how I like."

View map. Finke Gorge Ranger Station (08) 8956 7401. This is a remote and peaceful campsite on the banks of the Boggy Hole Billabong where the track follows the Finke River. The surrounding red cliffs and ancient landscape are part of the natural beauty of this place.

6. Sand Dunes, Simpson Desert, SA

Location

Anywhere within 50m of a public access track in the Simpson Desert Conservation Area

8. Dalhousie Springs, SA

Witjira National Park, the western edge of the Simpson Desert (26°25'23.2"S 135°30'8.96"E)

Type

Bush camping. 4WD access only

Cost

Free. Self-registration on arrival.

Facilities

Toliets, Showers, Drinking water

Things to do

Swimming at Dalhousie Springs, Fishing, Walking, Four-wheel driving

Pets allowed

No

Towing access

Yes

Campfires allowed

No

Rubbish disposal

No

More information

View map. Desert Parks Hotline (08) 8648 5328. Dalhousie is an oasis in the desert with a natural billabong fed by spring water at a steady 38 degrees celsius. This is a great place to camp, particularly after crossing the Simpson from East to West. Nothing beats soaking in the warm spring water after the dust of the crossing!